Uncommon Grounds

For centuries, Atlantic Canada has been home to unique products, brands and businesses. The Lost Cod clothing line celebrates that rich heritage with tees and hoodies emblazoned with logos like the Nova Scotia Voyageurs (the region’s first American Hockey League) and Starr Skates (originators of the modern skate). Its waterfront kiosk is closed for the winter, but you can order online or visit the Lost Cod pop-up stores that frequently appear at the Uncommon Grounds cafés.

Bishop’s Cellar

FOR THE WINE LOVER

In stylish Bishop’s Landing on Lower Water Street, Bishop’s Cellar is an upscale wine spirits and beer store, specializing in varieties and vintages you won’t find elsewhere. It also hosts regular tasting events. In Dresden Row Market just off Spring Garden Road, Premier Wine & Spirits is Nova Scotia’s first and largest private liquor store, focusing on value wines from independent vineyards.

Want to escape the elements, amuse young minds and find a unique gift? Clay Café on Quinpool Road is a paint-your-own pottery studio where young (or young-at-heart) artists can pick their pottery and paint it with their own whimsical designs, or follow a detailed pattern.

PROTECT YOUR VALUABLES

If you’re the sort of traveller who enjoys year-round outdoor explorations—cross-country skiing, hiking and the like—odds are good you’ll destroy, soak or freeze your wallet at some point. The Pelican ProGear Sport Wallet may be just the thing for you. Compact and durable, it can hold your cards, keys and cash, and comes with a lanyard and water-resistant seal. Find it at Kellys Luggage on Brunswick Street, in the Halifax Shopping Centre or at Park Lane.

YEAR-ROUND COMFORT

Damage resistant, crushproof and comfortable in any weather, the signature Canadian-made Tilley Endurables hat is de rigueur for savvy travellers. The cold-weather version is ideal for Halifax’s notoriously capricious winter weather. Find Tilley products at the Pier 21 Gift Shop at the Canadian Museum of Immigration on Marginal Road or at the Trail Shop on Quinpool Road.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The creations at NovaScotian Crystal are more than products; they’re functional works of art. Using Old World techniques, the workers (North America’s only makers of mouth-blown fine crystal) turn molten sand into intricate crystal creations—elegant dishes, ornaments and more. Visit the glassworks to see the magic happen (Monday to Friday) and browse the adjoining showroom (open daily).

With locations on South Park and Barrington streets, Uncommon Grounds is a destination of choice for serious coffee lovers. The New York-style coffeehouse offers gourmet drinks, snacks, soup, sandwiches and desserts.